Chief Engineer (OOP)
Location: Shipboard
Contract: Permanent, rotational 6 weeks on/6 weeks off
Salary: Competitive Salary Plus Benefits
Serco Defence – Maritime Services deliver maritime support packages tailored to our UK Ministry of Defence (MOD) client requirements.
Our out‑of‑port operation typically involves supporting naval, commercial and government vessels beyond standard port‑based activities. These services are adapted to evolving operational requirements crucial for ensuring operational readiness, training, naval exercises or emergency response.
We are seeking an experienced Chief Engineer (Unlimited) to join our dynamic team onboard one of our worldwide support vessels. The successful candidate will be responsible for the overall management, operation and maintenance of the vessel’s engine room and technical systems, ensuring compliance with international maritime regulations and company policies.
Key Responsibilities
* Oversee the safe and efficient operation of all engineering systems and machinery.
* Lead and manage the engineering team, ensuring effective maintenance planning and execution.
* Maintain accurate records, including planned maintenance systems (PMS) and engine logbooks.
* Liaise with shore management, classification societies and flag authorities as required.
* Troubleshoot technical issues and implement cost‑effective solutions.
* Regularly report to the Master on the status of the engine room, including machinery performance, fuel consumption and any technical issues.
* Coordinate with the Master to ensure the vessel operates within safe parameters.
* Advise the Master on any technical limitations that could impact vessel operations, such as speed restrictions or mechanical faults.
* Discuss planned maintenance schedules with the Master to avoid conflicts with tasking.
* Seek the Master’s approval for any major repairs or deviations from normal operating procedures.
* Collaborate in the coordination of dry‑docking, ship repairs and technical inspections.
* Provide input on fuel orders and bunker planning based on tasking requirements.
* Ensure all engine room logs, reports and records are up to date and align with company and flag‑state requirements.
* Communicate with the Master regarding any regulatory updates which may affect technical operations or class requirements.
* Work closely with the Master to ensure effective crew management, particularly engine room personnel.
* Conduct performance evaluations and discuss training needs or opportunities of the engineering team with the Master.
* Support Master in maintaining high morale and discipline among all crew members.
* Act as the primary technical advisor to Master during engine‑related emergencies.
* Ensure the vessel’s machinery, equipment and structural integrity comply with the rules set by classification society.
* Ensure compliance with class and MARPOL regulations regarding engine room emissions, waste management, oil‑water separation and ballast water.
* Develop, review and implement vessel‑specific safe work procedures, risk assessments for engineering systems and machinery.
* Implement and actively engage with the company SMS to ensure compliance with the ISM code.
Essential Qualifications / Experience
* Valid Chief Engineer (Unlimited) STCW III/2 licence.
* Strong knowledge of marine engineering systems, including propulsion, power generation and automation.
* Familiarity with planned maintenance systems (PMS) and vessel management software.
* Valid STCW certificates (PST, PSSR, PSCRB, PFRB, AFF, EFA, PDSD, etc.).
* Valid unrestricted ENG1.
* Excellent leadership, communication and problem‑solving skills.
* Experience with dry‑docking and shipyard repairs (preferred).
* High level of safety awareness and ability to work under pressure.
* Passport.
* Ability to achieve / maintain Security Clearance.
What We Offer
* Salary: Competitive salaries with annual reviews.
* Pension: Up to 6% contributory pension scheme.
* Training and development: Over 1,100 internal courses, funding for qualifications and apprenticeships, mentoring opportunities and a focus on internal progression.
* Well‑being: 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme, BUPA Anytime HealthLine, wellbeing app, Simplyhealth cash plans and 30% off at Serco‑managed leisure centres.
* Discounts: Save across around 1,000 retailers, from food and clothing to days out, entertainment and travel.
* ShareSave scheme: Helps you save regularly with the choice to buy Serco shares at a discount at the end of your savings period.
* Employee networks: Dedicated networks where colleagues can find support, share challenges, discuss ideas, network and build community.
* Charity: Support a charity or organisation with a paid volunteering day each year and donate to your favourite charity tax‑free through our Payroll Giving Scheme.
We’re also a signatory of the UK Government’s Women in Defence Charter. Please find out more on our website.
At Serco, we see people first and foremost for their performance and potential. We are committed to building a diverse and inclusive organisation that supports the needs of all. We will make reasonable adjustments at interview through to employment for our candidates and strongly encourage applications from a diverse candidate pool. We are open to discussions around flexibility and flexible working. As a proud Disability Confident Leader and holder of the Gold Inclusive Employer Standard, disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria for the job will be given the opportunity to demonstrate their abilities at an interview.
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